Posing in a fiery red skirt and a sequin-speckled tuxedo top that perfectly matches his scarlet-colored hair, 16-year-old Korben White took the internet by storm with the elegant ballgown he wore to his high school prom.

After his mom, Nina Green, posted a viral photo of her teenage son dressed to the nines for prom, opinions online were sharply divided. Supporters of the progressive movement celebrated his fashion choice, while critics argued it represented a parenting failure.

When Korben was just 12, he told his mother that he wanted to attend his school prom in a gown. Fast forward four years, and the teen—an aspiring drag queen known as Miss Frou Frou—fulfilled his dream.

In an interview with the BBC, Nina Green shared her son’s motivation: “He wanted to go as himself, while expressing his feminine side—with a tuxedo on the top and a dress at the bottom, heavily inspired by [American actor] Billy Porter.” She added, “He wanted to be Korben… but in a dress.”

When Korben stepped out of the car in his dazzling red outfit, complete with a white shirt and a large red bow, he was met with cheers from both staff and students at Archbishop Sancroft High School in Harleston, Norfolk.

“As soon as he got out of the car, everyone just cheered, and I was crying. Some of the teachers were crying too because he was being who he wanted to be,” said Nina. “Everyone has been very supportive, and his year group has been incredible. If you let your child be who they are, you’ll get nothing but the best out of them.”

She didn’t stop there. On July 1, Nina Green took to Twitter to continue showing her support, which quickly captured the attention of millions worldwide.

Even Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, noticed and commented, “You are an amazing beautiful mom, and your child is a STAR.”

Korben described the experience as “very surreal” and expressed his admiration for Visage, calling her an icon and a wonderful celebrity.

Nina Green didn’t anticipate that her tweet would “go crazy,” as she put it. She merely wanted to show her son “living his best life,” which resonated with other parents seeking advice.

Multiple users shared photos and stories of their own children who break traditional gender norms. One parent said, “I worry for my son. He would love to do something like this at prom, but he definitely wouldn’t have the support of all the students. It’s sad that homophobia still exists. Well done to you, your son, and his school!”

Another shared, “I am so happy for your son; he looked amazing!!! My son is trans, and after years of bullying, I had to pull him out of school for his mental health. He was always planning to wear a tux to prom, but he was deprived of the chance.”

A third simply wrote, “Absolutely stunning! My daughter wore a suit to her prom!”

However, the wave of positivity was met with a slew of negative comments from those not on the same social path.

One critic wrote, “There is absolutely nothing natural about a ‘boy’ dressing like a ‘girl’—the support just shows how messed up our world is.” Another commented, “We live in a world where children should no longer pretend to be Indians, but men should pretend to be women. Utopian.”

Despite the backlash, Nina Green stood firm and unwavering. The day after her internet-breaking tweet, she and Korben attended London Pride together, capturing the moment in a heartwarming photo.

One supportive follower commented, “My boy did too; couldn’t be prouder. He’s also at London Pride today, aged 16. Fabulous love to you and yours.” Another said, “You both look amazing xx.”

Yet, the negativity persisted. One harsh critic wrote, “Your son doesn’t look like a man anymore, more like some kind of fa****.”

Nina Green, who opts to focus on positive support, expressed hope that her experience would encourage other parents and children. “I really hope it will help others be more accepting, let proud parents know they are not alone, and that they can celebrate their children. Young people should know there is a supportive network if they need it.” She continued, “You need to accept your children for who they are.”

Korben Green is indeed a brave young man for expressing himself so confidently. He’s fortunate to have a supportive mom who disregards the noise and continues to parent him in the best way she knows.

What are your thoughts on teenagers attending prom in attire that doesn’t align with their assigned genders at birth?

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